iPad 2: Why it will Beat Cius and PlayBook

Don Reisinger

iOS 4 Is More Enterprise-Friendly

Apple's mobile operating system iOS hasn't been one of the more consumer-friendly platforms in the past, but its iOS 4 is. In fact, it delivers better Mail functionality, stronger permissions, and several other features that most corporate users will like to see. That doesn't mean that iOS 4 will be better than RIM's Tablet OS or Android running on the Cisco Cius, but it should put it within striking distance.

Apple's iPad 2 will likely be announced at some point in the next few months. Exactly what the device will offer at that point is anyone's guess, since Apple has yet to reveal details. That said, several industry analysts and critics believe that the updated tablet will feature dual cameras, the ability to connect to Verizon's 3G network natively, and potentially, connect to Verizon's 4G network. In addition, the device is expected to have a slightly updated design. Regardless of what the device offers, it will be faced with serious pressure from several different competitors, like the Motorola Xoom, Acer's upcoming tablets, and a slew of others. In the enterprise, it will be facing off with the Cisco Cius and RIM's BlackBerry PlayBook. In the corporate world especially, Apple has to be on top of its game. The company's iPad has started to make inroads in the corporate world, but it's the iPad 2 that will need to appeal to corporate customers more than any other. And although details on the new device are slim, it's highly likely that it will compete quite well against the Cius and BlackBerry PlayBook.

Don Reisinger is a freelance technology columnist. He started writing about technology for Ziff-Davis' Gearlog.com. Since then, he has written extremely popular columns for CNET.com, Computerworld, InformationWeek, and others. He has appeared numerous times on national television to share his expertise with viewers. You can follow his every move at http://twitter.com/donreisinger.